Disability Access and Inclusion Plan

All Western Australian Local Government Authorities are required to develop and implement Disability Access and Inclusion Plans in accordance with the Disability Services Act (1993) to ensure people with disability have the same opportunity as others to access council services, facilities, information, employment and civic participation. The Shire of Katanning offers many services that ensure the community is inclusive of people with disability and their families.

People with disabilities represent a significant section of the Katanning community. According to the Disability Services Commission (Disability Services Commission website, 2004) the number of people living in the Shire of Katanning who have a disability is 17.8% of the total population. This represents almost one in five people or approximately 900 people. Given that Katanning is also a regional service provider for the Shires of Broomehill, Woodanilling, Dumbleyung, Kojonup, Gnowangerup and Kent it can be estimated that the number of people with Disabilities for who the Shire of Katanning provides services and facilities is significantly higher than 1000.

As Katanning becomes more attractive as a “Bush Change” location for people leaving the major population centers the number of people with disabilities living in or serviced by Katanning is likely to increase in the future.

The vast majority of people with a disability (or disabilities) live in the community. It is therefore important that they have the same opportunities and choices as other people to participate in community life.

Given the broad range of services provided to their communities, Local Government plays a vital role in the lives of people with disabilities, their carers and families.